Tips for Early Communicators

Children learn to communicate best when they have a reason to communicate. One helpful strategy used by speech-language pathologists is called communication temptations. This just means setting up small, everyday situations that encourage your child to communicate naturally. Instead of asking your child lots of questions, you create moments where your child wants to let you know something.

What Are Communication Temptations?

Communication temptations are simple changes to daily routines that encourage your child to communicate using sounds, gestures, words, signs, or pictures. Any attempt to communicate counts!

The goal is to help your child learn that communication works—it helps them get what they want or need.

Why This Helps

• Helps children communicate on their own

• Makes communication feel fun and meaningful

• Reduces pressure to “perform” or say things perfectly

• Builds confidence and motivation

  
  

Easy Ways to Create Communication Temptations at Home

1. Put favorite items in sight but out of reach - Place a toy or snack where your child can see it but can’t reach it. Wait and see how they ask for help—pointing, looking at you, or making a sound all count!

2. Pause during fun routines - If you’re singing a song, blowing bubbles, or playing a game, stop for a moment and wait. Many children will look at you, gesture, or say “go” or “more.”

3. Offer choices - Hold up two snacks or toys and wait. Your child might point, look, or try to say the name.

4. Give small amounts - Offer just a few crackers or a short turn with a toy so your child has a reason to ask for more.

5. Be playfully forgetful - Give your child a closed container, a puzzle piece without the puzzle, or a marker without paper—and wait to see how they ask for help.